About Us

Terry Yagura Founder

Founded in 1984 by Terry Yagura, Arts for the Schools sought to address the decline in arts programming in schools, brought about by the 1978 ratification of Proposition 13. Terry firmly believed that arts were an essential part of a complete education and that professional artists would provide the highest quality learning experiences for our students. In addition to the Artist in Residence visual arts program in the schools, each season Terry also brought to our community a series of affordable and diverse performances by world-class performing artists. These artists also provided hands-on assembly, workshop, or master class experiences for our students. This program is now known as OnSTAGE.

Terry firmly believes in the power of culture and diversity to inspire individuals and communities. In 2007 Terry retired from Arts For the Schools, but has remained active and supportive. Arts For the Schools has become a community gem, and The Terry Yagura Arts for the Schools Endowment Fund has been established to continue her vision and ensure our long-term success.

Programs

The two primary programs of Arts for the Schools are: OnSTAGE, and Artist in Residence.

OnSTAGE

Each Year Arts for the Schools presents a season of Community Performances from diverse, national and world acclaimed performing arts groups from many different cultures and genres. These performers also provide students with hands-on opportunities for direct interaction through multiple school assemblies, workshops or master classes.

Through OnSTAGE Arts for the Schools strives to provide our community the most exceptional arts experiences (not often offered in rural regions such as ours) at the most affordable prices. Performers are selected for their ability to appeal to a broad audience. So, treat yourself to a treat — come to one of our OnSTAGE performances — or better yet, buy a season pass. Not only will you be supporting arts education for our students, but you will be blown away by your experience!!

Artist in Residence

Arts for the Schools sponsors three professional artists who provide art instruction to 3rd through 5th grade students in the Tahoe-Truckee and Incline school districts. These artists work with teachers in each grade level to ensure that California Visual Arts Key Content Standards are fulfilled with each project.

Student art projects introduce children to a variety of visual and language arts mediums. A general theme for each project encourages the individual expression of each child, and in this day where many aspects of the academic process seek the "right" answer, the Artist in Residence Program shows children that there is power in individual expression. Projects have ranged from traditional arts, to egg painting, to poetry, and collaborative installations.

Each year the Artist in Residence program culminates in May with the annual Artists in Bloom fundraiser, where artwork is matted and framed or displayed and sold to benefit Arts for the Schools. In addition, check out Art in Public Places which also highlights the creative products of this inspiring program.

More than 850 students benefit annually from the Artist in Residence Program.